Abbott still confident of Auckland spot

2015 World Cup

South Africa fast bowler Kyle Abbott is staying confident about his chances of playing in the World Cup semi-final against New Zealand, saying he hasn't heard otherwise and is trying to keep his emotions in check.

Abbott played in the quarter-final against Sri Lanka due to Vernon Philander still being injured, and he took one wicket. He had previously played in the defeat to Pakistan in Auckland, where he hadn't been given much warning.

Abbott said of his recall to the side for the quarter-final: "I got a heads up the evening before that it was a possibility because Vernon was struggling a bit.

"I prepared myself the night before to play so it wasn't as rushed as the last game at Eden Park, I had a bit of time to focus and get myself together, which was nice.

"(I just have to) make sure I am prepared for every game as though I am going to play. You just have to wing it. What else do you really do?"

Of his chances of playing, Abbott is hoping the selectors stick with the side that won their first ever World Cup knock out match, and he says it's easier to assume you will play, than try to pick yourself up before a game.

He added: "At the moment I still think I am part of it, until I am told otherwise. It's easier to get myself ready for it and then let down and told I am not playing rather than the other way around – and think I am not playing and then I have to switch on.

"I would rather switch on from a couple of days out and get my mind ready and then be let down. That's the easier way around.

"It's been of a case of keeping my emotions in check because it's a huge honour and privilege playing here and it's something I have aspired to for ages.

"That's been more of a challenge for me – not trying to get too excited for a game."

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